Deadly Wildfires Spread Rapidly Across Parts of Los Angeles Area

There have been at least two confirmed fatalities and dozens of serious injuries as a result of massive wildfires that are sweeping through the Los Angeles area. Here is the latest on this developing dire situation.

Los Angeles Wildfires Grow in Size

Thousands of people have been evacuated as multiple wildfires rage throughout parts of the Los Angeles metro area. Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone confirmed on Wednesday morning that two civilian deaths occurred at the site of the Eaton Fire. Marrone also said that there have been high numbers of reported injuries to people who did not obey the evacuation orders. In addition, injuries have been confirmed to first responders and fire crews.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency on Tuesday after the fires broke out during the mid-morning hours. The fires are being fueled by a major Santa Ana wind event that has sent gusts hitting speeds of up to 100 mph. The high winds have paired with low humidity levels and the dry vegetation to lay the groundwork for the spread of the flames.

The Palisades Fire has burned over 3,000 acres as of late Wednesday morning. The blaze has destroyed at least 1,000 structures with more in its path. This blaze is burning near the Pacific Palisades neighborhood located near Santa Monica and Malibu.

Residents were forced to leave their cars and flee on foot as the flames inched closer. Many roads were blocked by either flames or debris. The abandoned cars prevented emergency vehicles from accessing the region, prompting officials to use a bulldozer to push the cars out of the way.

The Palisades Fire spread into Malibu by Tuesday evening, triggering more burn injuries as residents tried to escape. This fire erupted about 10 miles from where the massive Franklin Fire started in December. While there has been confirmation that at least 1,000 structures have been destroyed, Newsom warned that over 13,000 more buildings were under threat.